Joe Gatto, the beloved comedian and former star of "Impractical Jokers," has announced that he is canceling his stand-up comedy tour and seeking professional treatment. The news comes amid serious allegations of sexual misconduct, shaking up fans and followers of the comedian.
In a statement to USA TODAY, Gatto confirmed that he is voluntarily checking into an in-patient facility to focus on his well-being. While he did not specify the exact nature of his treatment, he made it clear that this step is crucial for his personal growth. "Having taken some time to reflect, I've decided to voluntarily enter an in-patient program to continue working on myself," Gatto shared. "I just want to thank my friends, fans, and especially my family for all of their support — never more so than over the last few days."
As a result of his decision, Gatto has also pulled the plug on his recently launched "Let's Get Into It" comedy tour. According to a source close to the situation, but not authorized to speak publicly, all upcoming performances in major cities like Phoenix, Las Vegas, and St. Louis have been canceled. The tour had initially kicked off on February 13 and was set to continue across North America.
The shocking turn of events follows disturbing accusations that surfaced over the weekend. A TikToker known as @joozyb went viral after alleging that Gatto sexually assaulted her in 2023 when she was just 19 years old. In a 10-minute video posted on March 21, she recounted meeting the comedian at brunch before he invited her to his show that night. After the performance, she claimed that she visited Gatto at his hotel room, where the alleged incident took place. "I don't want to go into the details about everything," she stated, but emphasized that she "doesn't want any girl to feel" the way he made her feel.
The social media user further supported her claims by sharing multiple photos of herself with Gatto, along with screenshots of messages allegedly exchanged between them. One particular screenshot appeared to show instructions on how to reach his hotel room. She also posted an alarming photo of a large bruise on her bottom, which she claimed was left "with his teeth." Additionally, a video timestamped at 2:26 a.m. on September 9, 2023, reportedly showed her leaving the hotel room.
As the controversy gained momentum, another woman stepped forward with further allegations. This second accuser, who initially met Gatto at 15 before later working for him, told People magazine that the comedian "inappropriately grabbed her, asked for back massages," and frequently pried into her personal sex life. These new claims have only intensified public scrutiny surrounding Gatto’s behavior.
In response to the allegations, Gatto issued a statement to USA TODAY on Sunday, vehemently denying the accusations of sexual assault. However, he did acknowledge lapses in judgment that may have harmed those closest to him. "I have used poor judgment and, as a result, have violated the trust of the people I love most," he admitted. "Working on myself is an ongoing process, and I am now going to take some time away from the public eye to focus my energies where I need to."
Fans of "Impractical Jokers" will remember that Gatto was a central figure on the show for nine seasons before his unexpected departure in 2021. At the time, he cited personal issues related to his separation from his wife, Bessy, as the reason for stepping away from the hit hidden-camera prank series. However, in a heartfelt social media post from September 2023, the couple confirmed that they had reconciled.
The latest developments have left fans divided, with many expressing shock, disappointment, and concern over the unfolding allegations. Some have rallied behind Gatto, wishing him well on his journey toward self-improvement, while others remain critical, demanding further accountability.
With Gatto now stepping away from the public eye and his career indefinitely on hold, the future remains uncertain. Whether he can rebuild his reputation or whether these allegations will permanently alter the course of his career remains to be seen. For now, all eyes are on the unfolding story and how the comedian will navigate this tumultuous chapter in his life.
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